I can't say enough good things about Patrick Russ and his CCW course. Patrick is extremely knowledgeable, professional, and clearly cares about making sure his students actually understand the material--not just pass the class. He does an excellent job explaining both the legal side and the practical, real-world considerations of carrying, and he takes the time to answer every question thoroughly. Nothing felt rushed, and no question was brushed off. You can tell he has real experience and knows how to teach in a clear, approachable way. The course was well organized, informative, and engaging from start to finish. Patrick creates a comfortable learning environment while still emphasizing safety and responsibility, which I really appreciated. If you're looking for a CCW instructor who is patient, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in his students, I highly recommend Patrick Russ. I'd absolutely take another course from him and would recommend him without hesitation. read more

All of the employees here are so patient and nice. They really want to help the customer not just make a sale.

Don't make a purchase using them as an FFL. They don't even ask for a tracking number to assist. Whomever checks the firearms in always happens to never be around and it's the same excuse. Not wanting to assume but seems I'm always back burner-ed when there. They are not eager to help you or is it just me? Hopefully they will contact me when my firearm arrives to pick up and be done with it. Poway is extremely great and worth the drive from north county. read more

Dealing with one employee at the gun counter numerous times, unfortunately has left a bad impression. I generally don't leave a negative review. But Cody treated me rudely and disrespectful. Maybe he was having a bad day. But I've been there a many times and unfortunately, I had to interact with him. Cody seems to have a chip on his shoulder at all times. He had trouble finding my firearm. And then delivered it in the most unprofessional manner. I don't know if it was him, but somebody took the test shot card from the manufacturer out of the other plastic Ziploc bag (containing instructions and other documents). Then he jammed the gun in that pocket and ruined that factory test shot card. I won't go into the other specifics of how he talked condescending to me. But Cody is the worst employee they have. Oh, and be sure and check your receipt and question everything. Because they do not itemize everything on the receipts. Later, I figured out that they kept the factory lock that came from the manufacturer. Then they sold me another lock and just added it to the total and did not tell me. That has not been my experience at other gun stores. Plus, this was not my first gun from that particular brand, so I know how they package everything. Overall, a nice clean store, unfortunately marred by an employee who is unprofessional and condescending and a chip on his shoulder towards customers. Unfortunately, I won't be going back. read more

Gunsmith Darren fixed my magwell from a reputable CA company that sent me a defective item. Friendly and professional. Hes awesome. Thanks Darren!!! read more

Been going here for a few years now. Place is pretty good and the staff are really helpful. Theres a good selection of rental guns available. Place is really well kept and the range is clean and better than most in the area. Prices for the range time are pretty good as well. read more

North County Shooting Center - Gun/Rifle Ranges Near Me - San Marcos, California

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I want to start by saying that I genuinely don't like writing negative reviews, especially not within the firearms community, an industry I respect and have been part of for years. But after my third disappointing experience at North County Shooting Center, something needs to be said. As an experienced shooter, I came in with a reasonable request -- simply to use a tool for a minor fix I was fully capable of doing myself. Instead of any assistance, I was met with poor customer service, a dismissive attitude, and unprofessional staff behavior. The response I received felt smug and unhelpful, which is the exact opposite of what a well-run range should offer. What's even more frustrating is that this isn't an isolated incident. This range consistently shows a lack of support for customers, even those who clearly know what they're doing. Meanwhile, Poway Weapons & Gear continues to provide excellent service, respectful staff, and real customer care -- a night-and-day difference. Because of this ongoing pattern, I won't be returning, and I'll make sure other shooters know not to waste their time or money here. Places like this need to hear when their customer experience is pushing people away. read more

Been here a few times to use the range. Never had a wait. Always checked in quickly. The staff is always nice. The range is nice and works great. Pricing is fair for the use and things aren't overpriced like targets, earplugs or glasses if you forget them. read more

I consigned my 1911 MC Operator with this shooting center back in May, trusting them as a member and customer. I was told it needed to be on sale for 90 days before I could pick it up if unsold. What I was never told is that the firearm had already been sold within that timeframe and I only learned of it when I went in after the 90 days. From there, the runaround began. On 8/27, I received an email stating I would have my check within 14 days. That date came and went with no payment. When I followed up, I was told again the owner was out of town and was the only one who issues checks. It has now been well over a month, and despite multiple attempts to reach out, my emails have gone unanswered. The bottom line: they sold my gun, collected their money, and left me hanging. I feel completely taken advantage of, disrespected, and treated unfairly as a paying member. This is not how business should be done. read more

Beware -- employee named Cody is a jerk and is rude. I checked out the place and he was so rude about basic gun purchase and lessons that I left ... as I was walking out, I happened to see that the owner (Daniel) was there with his parrot ... and he talked me down, so I bought the safety class His wife taught it and it was great I went back to research getting a gun, saw Cody standing around and could hear him talking with customers ... make rude political jokes (if you hate it here so much, move away... we do t want you). Just as I was going to leave, the manager (Patrick) came out and offered to help me. He was great. Took the time to explain the guns and even offered to take me in the back to try a few ... took the time and invested a few rounds. I was delighted and ready to come come back and buy I just came back since my ccw interview coming and I wanted to sign up for the CCW class, and buy my gun Sadly Cody came over and told me - Patrick wasn't here and I should "just call him during the week" - needed to buy a private lesson to try the gun - call later to schedule a class - and my favorite "don't care if you want to buy a gun, this is how it is and you can buy it elsewhere " So I will. If the owners and manager won't deal with this rude staff member, I will give my Mo et and business to someone else. Hope you have a better experience Stay away from Cody... hoping he is just a bad apple. Only people that were good are Daniel (owner) , his wife (co-owner), and Patrick (manager) ... can't speak about the other staff read more

Everyone was super nice. Been there twice now and even when the range was packed I only had to wait maybe 10 mins for a lane. The selection for retail other than guns is a little limited but if you're looking for guns they have plenty of great new and used options. You do have to buy a yearly membership to use the range but it's cheap and worth it if you plan to come back. read more

Patrick and everyone there were helpful, knowledgeable, patient and friendly. Class was awesome and I am looking forward to more training experiences. Thank you! read more

North County Shooting Center - Stance and sighting. - Gun/Rifle Ranges Near Me - San Marcos, California

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Patrick was very informative and patient with our group of ladies taking a basic pistol training class. This is a great class for beginners to build confidence and safety around guns. read more

North County Shooting Center - Gun/Rifle Ranges Near Me - San Marcos, California

I took a Basic Pistol training class with Patrick and we all absolutely LOVED it! Extremely informative with some great take home information for safety. Also loved learning proper technique for grip and stance prior to shooting, so that I was able to go into the range and start shooting with good habits. Super fun, highly recommend!! read more

North County Shooting Center - Basic Pistol Training Class - Gun/Rifle Ranges Near Me - San Marcos, California

I always love coming to this shooting range! It's a great place for target practice. The staff is so friendly and knowledgeable! The place is well kept and they have a nice selection of guns to buy. Also, if you're a lefty like me, they can switch out parts of the gun to make it more user friendly! Bang! Bang! read more

North County Shooting Center - Gun/Rifle Ranges Near Me - San Marcos, California

I had a private lesson today with Cheryl. She is very knowledgeable about gun safety and how to properly shoot a firearm. Most important, she made me feel comfortable and safe! I learned a lot of useful information too! I highly recommend her for those that need more training and guidance. It is money well spent, and has increased my interest in purchasing a firearm too. She also has a super friendly personality! This shooting range is modern, extremely clean, and they all made me feel welcomed! First impressions mean a great deal, and they have earned a new member for sure! Thanks again Cheryl! Gail K. read more

This place is fantastic! The staff is amazing! It's your all in one shop, you have the retail, shooting range and classroom in the same place. They offer a variety of class from pistols, rifles and shotguns. IThe range is spotless, so you can be sure to have a safe and enjoyable experience. read more

North County Shooting Center - Gun/Rifle Ranges Near Me - San Marcos, California

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I just finished with a home defense class with Patrick, it was so informative. He was so patient and I learned a lot. ,Highly , highly recommend to anyone that's looking into self protection. N. County Shooting center is highly recommended!!! if you're looking for a good class and learning about guns and shooting them this is the place to be. Ask for Patrick. read more

Went recently , hadn't been in at least over a year. They have a very nice range which is why I wanted to try and laser bore site my optics for my pistol. If you're not a very active range guy I'd recommend this place it's super nice , they also have a really nice lounge area which I was a huge fan of. Other than that it sucks to say I won't be coming here again. It's about thirty minutes away and a little pricey compared to the range by my house , I just find the range really nice. However I wasn't under the impression that it was "1 round every 1 second" when I went. The last time I had been there , there wasn't an issue , even had the guy (that I'm assuming was the RSO) come by and shoot my pistol. I've been shooting guns for a little while. I'm sorry but if I can't do a simple bill drill or a "mag dump" to practice my recoil management this ain't the place for me , but hey thats just me. It's not my business and I understand the reasonings for such policies at certain ranges. The last gripe would just be , every time I call and ask basic/simple questions they weren't very knowledgeable. I've called at least 4-5 times in the last couple months and I'd say I talked to at least 2-3 different people and it was the same , they always had to ask someone else . Not the biggest deal whatsoever , was just put off by it. read more

Patrick is a great instructor and has taught me so much. From safety, confidence handling a gun and self defense tactics- this has been a great experience. Highly recommend!! read more

I just attended my CCW renewal class. Patrick Russ is fantastic at what he does and i have much appreciation for him. This was the first shop I went to to get my first firearm and license and the staff and facility is fantastic. read more

I attended a women's situational awareness with basic pistol training class that Patrick put on this week. I could not have been more impressed and satisfied with the amount of knowledge and training he brought to this class. His personality creates a great, comfortable & relaxed learning environment, which is essential for novice shooters. If you have any thoughts of learning how to operate a firearm, I highly recommend North County Shooting Center and ask for Patrick. They also have a great selection of firearms for sale with a variety of other services as well. An amazing experience all around, thank you Patrick, 5 stars! read more

Patric was an amazing trainer. he was clear and precise. He did not make you fell inadequate for being a beginner. he was thorough and professional. I felt so confident and educated when I left. I highly recommend taking this class to anyone but especially to women that wanna learn how to properly load and shoot a gun. 5 stars read more

Great place to practice indoor shooting. Very friendly staff. Reasonably priced. Hope to return soon. Lots of guns and ammo.

I can't say enough about this range. It's modern, they offer top notch service, and every staff person is super helpful , personable, and courteous. read more

Had a great experience taking the basic Pistol trading class taught by Cheryl. She was professional, interactive and extremely helpful. I highly recommend this training. Additionally,the store is well stocked, clean and staffed with professionals. read more

Love NC Shooting Center. They are my "go to" range! I took my CCW training with John Russo and Patrick Russ. I can't recommend them more!! Great classes and great instructors. Both also gave great ideas and resources to improve and keep training! read more

We took a beginners course for guns here because my husband and I are looking to own and get comfortable with some pistols in the house for protection and gun hobby. The course was ran by one of the owners and she was very knowledgeable! We learned about gun safety, how to handle a gun, using a gun, and shooting a gun. It was a very informative course. I can say I am not afraid to handle a gun and more knowledgeable surrounding proper usage and care. read more

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Just finished my 16hr CCW course. Patrick was the instructor for both day one and day 2. Patrick was awesome, lots of info and discussion, not just lecture. I also purchased a new handgun during this time. Staff was friendly and helpful. Recommend coming here for a nice clean shooting range and CCW course. Will be looking into doing some pistol classes here in the future as well. read more

Great range, can get a little busy but service is always great and range itself is well kept.

This was my second time to this range and I just love how welcoming and friendly the staff is . It's very clean and well organized , very easy to find what I'm looking for and meets all my firearms needs. I can tell this is a family friendly place it just makes you feel comfortable and able to ask whatever questions you might have. Thank you to the whole staff who helped me and answered all my questions . I highly recommend taking the classes offered by Cheryl and highly recommend this place to everyone who loves to shoot . I will definitely be back soon. read more

Our first time at this shooting center proved to be a fun experience. using our newly purchased weapons we were anxious to find a place to try them out. We went on a Thursday mid morning and basically had the range almost to ourselves. Zack was both attentive and helpful and explained the rules of the range, the membership and best times to practice. It's also a one stop shop operation with a nice assortment of weapons and accessories. I only wish they were closer to Murrieta/Temecula area to avoid the morning and afternoon traffic. Other than that we will be back. read more

I walked in and asked for help with my Sig 3645. I couldn't free up the slide mechanism, I installed the recoil spring wrong when I was finished cleaning it. Stephen was there and helped me get it released. Excellent customer service. read more

Fantastic. Have taken a couple of private lessons from Patrick and it's a great experience. Wanted to learn to shoot safely forever and glad I finally took the first steps. Patrick keeps it interesting and safe. And it's reasonably priced. read more

Patrick was awesome! Made it super easy to comprehend how to use the shotgun I brought in. I was nervous I wouldn't pick it up but it was so easy after taking his course. They know what they're doing here! Safety is first always and I really appreciated that! Can't wait to go back. Thanks again Patrick read more

I took a basic pistol class with Patrick and he was awesome. He's very safety first and knowledgeable. He made the experience fun and enjoyable and I will definitely take another class with him!!! read more

I took the first level safety class and really enjoyed it. There was a lot of good information presented and the time on the range was extremely valuable. The class size is kept small so I got all the attention I needed. I've since been back to use the range and have had very positive experiences with the staff. The range is well maintained and I'm happy to consider this my home base for all my practice needs. read more

Patrick was fantastic! Patient and knowledgeable. I would highly recommend North county Shooting Center

Today I took a lesson with Cheryl to learn rifle safety, handling and target practice. I'm retired teacher and I can certainly identify a superb educator! Cheryl taught with clarity and patience. She made the experience safe and so fun! I am looking forward to getting back to the range asap and I will take more lessons with Cheryl as I continue to acquire more firearms in the future! thank you! read more

This place is great! Each staff member is friendly, knowledgeable and helpful, what more could I ask for. I recently purchased a 9mm from them and the entire process including filling out the background check form was quick and seamless. The shooting range is kept clean, and the targets are always working. Their ammo is also competitively priced. read more